US EV Sales in 2026: Latest Real Numbers, Top Brands & Market Trends for American Drivers

The U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market – covering battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) – faced a major reset in late 2025 after the federal $7,500 tax credit expired at the end of September. This led to a sharp drop in Q4 2025 sales, but the full-year picture shows resilience, with experts forecasting gradual recovery in 2026 driven by new affordable models, better charging networks, and growing consumer confidence.

As of late January 2026, full monthly data for January isn’t fully released yet (major sources like Cox Automotive, Kelley Blue Book, and CleanTechnica typically finalize reports in following weeks). However, the most recent verified figures from January 2026 reports provide a clear snapshot of the current U.S. EV landscape.

Key US EV Sales Metrics (2025 Full Year – Latest Verified Data)

• Total U.S. EV sales 2025: Approximately 1.27 million units (Kelley Blue Book estimates), representing 7.8% of new-car sales.
• Alternative estimates: Around 1.28–1.30 million units, with only a slight 2% decline from 2024 despite the Q4 plunge (Cox Automotive / CleanTechnica).
• Q4 2025: ~234,000 units, down 36% YoY and 46% from Q3 due to incentive expiration (Cox Automotive).
• Tesla’s share: ~46.2% of total EV sales in 2025, though some reports note it rose to 59% in post-incentive periods as rivals struggled more (Business Insider / Cox Automotive).
• 2026 Outlook: Cox Automotive projects EV share near 8% of new-vehicle sales, with flat-to-modest growth as affordable options like the 2026 Chevrolet Bolt (~$30,000, 255+ miles range) and refreshed Nissan LEAF enter the market.

Top Brands Leading US EV Sales (2025 Real Numbers)

1. Tesla — ~589,000 vehicles sold in 2025 Market leader by far, with Model Y as the top-selling EV overall (despite a ~22% drop YoY in some estimates). Strength in premium segments, but facing competition and demand softness post-incentives.
2. General Motors (GM) — 169,887 units (+48% YoY) Surged into second place, driven by models like the Chevy Equinox EV (~58,000 units alone) and Blazer EV. GM captured ~13% of the market.
3. Ford — 84,113 units (down ~14% YoY) Key models include Mustang Mach-E (~51,620) and F-150 Lightning (~27,307). Hybrids performed strongly, but pure EVs faced headwinds.

Other notable performers: Hyundai/Kia (strong in crossovers like IONIQ 5), Rivian, and Cadillac (up in luxury segments).

Why the US Market Shifted & What’s Next in 2026

The Q4 2025 collapse pulled forward purchases into Q3 (rush for tax credits), leading to softer demand early in 2026. North American registrations fell sharply in December 2025 (~39% drop to ~100,000+ units). However, experts emphasize this is a transition, not retreat:

• New affordable EVs launching (e.g., Chevy Bolt, potential compact pickups).
• Infrastructure improvements and battery cost reductions.
• Long-term growth: EV sales up 162% since 2021 despite recent dips (CleanTechnica).

Global context: While China dominated with ~12.9 million units in 2025 (Rho Motion), the U.S. remains a key premium market led by domestic innovation.

For the latest January 2026 monthly breakdowns and state-level insights, check trusted sources:

• Cox Automotive reports
• Kelley Blue Book / Electrek
• CleanTechnica brand analyses

The U.S. EV transition is evolving toward consumer-driven growth, with more choices and better value on the horizon for American buyers.

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